AeroLogic and DHL Dispute Belgian Ban on 777 Night Flights

AeroLogic and DHL Express are embroiled in a political dispute involving Belgium’s federal and Flemish governments over the use of Boeing 777 freighters for night-time operations at Brussels National Airport.

The controversy centers on a recent decision by federal mobility minister Georges Gilkinet to revoke an exception allowing AeroLogic, a joint venture between DHL Express and Lufthansa Cargo, to operate its Boeing 777-200F aircraft during nighttime hours. Flemish minister Ben Weyts has criticized this move, claiming it was made without proper consultation and could lead to increased noise pollution from smaller aircraft like the A300-600F. Weyts argues that the Flemish government, which oversees the airport, would prefer to retain the larger 777s to minimize noise impact.

Weyts plans to challenge Gilkinet’s decision and is urging the Flemish administration to file a conflict of interest action. Flemish interior minister Gwendolyn Rutten has emphasized the economic importance of maintaining B777 operations, arguing that restricting these flights could harm the Flemish economy and employment.

Gilkinet, however, has defended his decision, stating that it aims to ensure a sustainable future for Brussels Airport by enforcing noise regulations. He cited a longstanding issue with AeroLogic and DHL exceeding noise limits set by a 2004 decree on airport noise pollution. Despite discussions with DHL since June 2021, Gilkinet claims no effective solutions were proposed.

A DHL Group spokesperson confirmed the potential withdrawal of authorization for 777F night flights, noting that such a ban would necessitate the use of older, noisier aircraft. The 777F is considered one of the quietest and most modern widebody freighters available.

The Belgian ombudsman had previously reported over 1,500 violations of night-flight rules at Brussels National last year, with AeroLogic being cited 149 times for 777-200F usage.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, AeroLogic, DHL Express, ch-aviation.com